Top tips for perfecting nail prep
By Guest Writer | 27 February 2024 | Expert Advice, Feature
Elevate your business and embrace new techniques with advice from the Scratch Stars award-winning OPI team, as OPI field educator, Ashleigh Clements, shares her top tips for perfecting nail prep.
Ashleigh Clements
Nail preparation is the foundation of a great nail service. Great nail prep offers a smooth canvas for product application and can significantly enhance wear.
The client consultation will allow you to determine their nail type, so that you can offer a prescriptive service: tailoring the treatment to their needs. Ask questions about their lifestyle so that you can choose a nail system to withstand any hobbies or habits, and if you suspect that the client has a contraindication (such as a fungal, bacterial or viral infection), refer them to their GP.
Tool tips
Invest in good quality tools and maintain them well. Blunt tools will make your job more challenging, so replace them or get them sharpened when required.
During my career, I have tried various tools to find out what suits my techniques best, as one tool does not suit all. Good tools are imperative to your work, so see them as an investment in your craft.
Classic manicure
In a traditional manicure service, I use the OPI Pro Spa Cuticle Exfoliating Cream, a fast-acting gel-cream formula that helps eliminate dry, rough cuticles. It includes AHAs and salicylic acid, which target dead skin cells and aid in the removal of cuticle from the nail plate. The avocado lipid complex provides essential moisture.
Use a small amount per nail, around the size of a grain of rice, and smooth around the area and up the side walls. Leave for a few minutes, then push back the cuticle with a cuticle pusher.
OPI Pro Spa Exfoliating Cuticle Cream www.opi.com
Enhancements
When using a gel polish or enhancement system, I advise dry prep to ensure that no additional oils feature on the nail plate before product application. Push back the cuticle and remove from the nail plate, nipping any lifted, non-living tissue if necessary. I recommend using curved cuticle scissors.
Don’t forget to pull down the skin on the side walls to thoroughly remove non-living tissue, as if any remains, this could cause premature removal of product.
KB Curved Cuticle Scissors
www.katiebarnesacademy.com
Shaping
I suggest using a 240-grit file on the natural nail to achieve the client’s desired length and shape. If required, finish with a light buff.
I like to use the OPI Flex 220/280 File, which can also remove the shine from the nail if needed for the adhesion of the chosen system.
OPI Flex 220/280 File www.opi.com
Cleansing & adhesion
When removing oil and dust from the nail plate, use an IPA product such as OPI N.A.S 99, ensuring that you cover the entire area and pay attention to the side walls. When using an Expert Touch Lint Free Wipe, use a corner per nail to ensure the part of the wipe you are using is clean.
OPI Bond Aid balances the pH of the natural nail to promote better adhesion of L&P, gel, adhesives, nail treatments and nail lacquer.
OPI N.A.S. 99 Nail Cleansing Solution www.opi.com
OPI Bond Aid www.opi.com
Aftercare
Do not forget to offer your client aftercare advice. Help them to understand the importance of nail maintenance and how different products can benefit their skin and nail needs, and prolong the service.